Microsoft is actively developing its own AI reasoning models and testing alternatives to ChatGPT for integration into its Copilot assistant. Despite its substantial investment in OpenAI, the partnership between the two companies appears increasingly strained.
According to The Information, Microsoft is evaluating models from DeepSeek (China), xAI (Elon Musk), and Meta (Mark Zuckerberg) while also working on its own AI model, MAI. Additionally, Microsoft aims to commercialize its internal model, directly competing with OpenAI.
Rising Tensions Between Microsoft and OpenAI
Disagreements between the two companies have become more apparent. One major conflict reportedly arose last fall when Mustafa Suleyman, head of Microsoft’s internal AI unit, asked OpenAI to clarify how its latest model, o1, functioned. Suleyman was allegedly frustrated that OpenAI had not provided Microsoft with documentation on o1’s programming.
Microsoft’s move to distance itself from OpenAI has been evident in other areas, reminds NIX Solutions. In January, the company ended a contract requiring OpenAI to use Azure for hosting. Meanwhile, OpenAI recently announced a $500 billion plan to establish large new data centers with Oracle and SoftBank, signaling its growing independence from Microsoft.
While Microsoft’s AI strategy continues to evolve, we’ll keep you updated as more details emerge.